We are inviting expressions of interest from Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) to participate in an exciting international visit to the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) in Larnaca, Cyprus, from 12th-15th April 2027.

This unique opportunity will bring together UK-based RTPs working across Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS), marine autonomy, sensing, AI, digital technologies and related disciplines to explore world-leading research, facilities and innovation programmes focused on the future of the maritime sector.

To be considered, please complete this expression of interest form.

About the Visit

CMMI is an international centre of excellence addressing major challenges and opportunities within the marine and maritime sectors through research, technology development, innovation and skills development.

This four-day programme will provide participants with first-hand insight into cutting-edge developments in:

• Marine robotics and autonomous systems

• Maritime digitalisation

• Autonomous navigation and maritime safety

• Environmental monitoring and marine observation

• Marine sensing and communications technologies

• Ocean governance and responsible innovation

• Human factors and operational safety

Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with CMMI researchers, technical specialists and innovation teams while sharing knowledge and expertise from the UK RAS community.

Planned Programme

Day 1: Marine Technology Division

The visit will begin with an overview of CMMI’s research infrastructure and capabilities in marine robotics and maritime digitalisation.

Topics are expected to include:

• Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs)

• Autonomous navigation and COLREGs compliance

• Underwater vehicle docking and long-term residency

• Maritime sensing technologies

• Communications systems

• Maritime data and digital infrastructure

Participants will also learn about ongoing projects, test facilities and research programmes supporting next-generation autonomous maritime operations.

Day 2: Smart Marina Testbed

Attendees will visit CMMI’s Smart Marina Testbed to explore research and demonstration activities in operational environments.

Potential demonstrations may include:

• Integrated sensing and situational awareness systems

• Environmental monitoring technologies

• Autonomous marine-system operations

• Real-time data integration platforms

• Maritime digital twins and decision-support systems

This session will provide valuable insight into the deployment and validation of autonomous maritime technologies in real-world settings.

Day 3: Marine Sciences Division

Participants will explore how autonomous systems and advanced sensing technologies are supporting marine science and environmental research.

Areas of focus may include:

• Marine observation and monitoring

• Ocean mapping and surveying

• Coastal ecosystems and biodiversity

• Aquaculture technologies

• Marine biotechnology

• Distributed sensor networks and autonomous data collection platforms

The programme will highlight how robotics and autonomous systems are enabling new approaches to understanding and protecting marine environments.

Day 4: Marine Social Sciences Division

The final day will focus on the societal, regulatory and human dimensions of marine autonomy.

Topics are expected to include:

• Human factors and operational safety

• Maritime regulation and ocean governance

• Responsible research and innovation

• Skills development and workforce challenges

• Public engagement and societal acceptance of autonomous technologies

The afternoon will conclude with facilitated discussions exploring future collaboration opportunities between CMMI and UK organisations.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open only to Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) working across marine autonomy, robotics, AI, sensing, cyber-physical systems, autonomy assurance, digital engineering and related technical disciplines. Applicants must be based at a UK academic institution or Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs).

It is not open to academics, researchers, postdoctoral researchers, students, or individuals working in industry. Previous participants in a UK RAS STEPS-funded international visit are also ineligible to apply.

Applicants should provide a short statement (maximum 200 words) explaining:

• Why participation would benefit their professional development;

• How their expertise aligns with the visit themes; and

• How they will share learning and outcomes with the wider UK RAS community.

The closing date for expressions of interest is midday on Friday 23rd October (or when we reach a maximum of 30).

Following the EOI process, applicants will be invited to participate in the UK RAS STEPS peer-review voting process, which will be used to select the final attendees.

How Attendees Will Be Selected

We expect to receive significantly more applications than available places.

Following the expression of interest stage, anonymised applications will be circulated to eligible applicants. Participants will be invited to review and vote for the candidates they believe would make the strongest contribution to the visit and wider community.

The voting form will be circulated w/c 26th October, and all votes must be submitted by midday on Friday 6th November. Final attendees will be selected through this peer-review process.

Successful applicants will be notified during the week commencing 9th November and will be invited to attend an online briefing session at 11:00am on Thursday 12th November to discuss logistics and next steps.

Please note participation is subject to written confirmation from your line manager that they are happy for you to attend the visit.